Holiday houses in Hat Head

On the New South Wales mid-North Coast, a five-hour drive north of Sydney, Hat Head is a tiny seaside town surrounded by Hat Head National Park. The lush natural setting gives this low-key beach holiday destination a wonderful sense of isolation, yet the larger town of Kempsey, the hub of the Macleay Valley Coast, lies just 32 kilometres (or a 30-minute drive) inland.

With limited dining options in the town of around 300 residents, Hat Head is the type of place you bring everything you’ll need to enjoy being immersed in nature, whether that means tackling excellent local walking trails, hitting the surf, paddling in the Korogoro Creek estuary that meanders through the village, or simply lazing on the beach. There are plenty more surf spots worth seeking out along this stretch of coastline, as well as similarly laid-back coastal towns just a short drive to the north and south.

The warmer months from October to April are typically the most popular times to visit the coastal towns of the NSW mid-North Coast. Winter days, however, are more comfortable for bushwalking, and it’s often still warm enough for swimming. Whales also arrive during the cooler months; Korogoro Point, at the tip of Hat Head’s headland, is a good vantage point for spotting several species, particularly humpback whales, as they migrate along Australia’s east coast between May and November. Book well ahead for accommodation during school holidays, when Connors Beach, Hat Head’s main beach, is patrolled by lifeguards. In May, you can catch the Crescent Head Malibu Classic surfing competition in Hat Head’s neighbouring town to the south.

Hat Head National Park

From the southeastern edge of Hat Head you can access trailheads for the Korogoro Walking Track that loops the headland, and the Connors Walking Track that skirts several secluded beaches, perfect for a romantic picnic. There are more trails to explore at the northern end of the national park, 30 kilometres northeast of Hat Head at Smoky Cape, which is also home to a heritage lighthouse.

South West Rocks and Arakoon National Park

Just 28 kilometres north of Hat Head, the coastal town of South West Rocks is known for the historic Trial Bay Gaol perched on its headland. The colonial-era ruins, which you can tour, form part of Arakoon National Park, which has some scenic coastal walking trails.

Crescent Head

A 40-minute drive south of Hat Head lies the slightly larger coastal village of Crescent Head. Named one of Australia’s National Surfing Reserves in 2008, its main beach, Killick Beach, is famed for its long right-hand break. The sheltered waters of Killick Creek are also a popular swimming spot for families.